Hatchback (Overall Quality)

Overview

What's New for 2014:

Revised trim levels

2-door body style has been discontinued

To be replaced by a completely redesigned 2015 GTI

IntroductionLike the Golf model on which it is based, the 2014 Volkswagen GTI is offered in 4-door guise only; the 2-door GTI is no longer available. This sporty front-wheel-drive (FWD) VW accommodates a driver and up to 4 passengers, can be ordered in one of two trim levels, and is expected to return fuel economy in excess of 30 mpg on the highway. Competitors include the Dodge Dart GT, Ford Focus ST, Honda Civic Si, Hyundai Veloster Turbo, Mazda Mazdaspeed3, Mini Cooper S, and the Subaru WRX.

Also available is the 2014 Volkswagen GTI Driver's Edition, which trumps the Wolfsburg Edition thanks to its power tilt/slide moonroof, adaptive HID headlights, leather upholstery, and touch-screen navigation system.

Options and PackagesAs is the case with competing automakers like Honda, Volkswagen provides buyers with a choice of progressively well-equipped trim levels, which results in very few stand-alone options and, in the case of the GTI, no upgrade packages. The only factory add-on for 2014 is a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission with paddle shifters, though a selection of floor mats, splash guards, and body side moldings is available through Volkswagen dealers.

Under the HoodBoth versions of the 2014 VW GTI feature the same turbocharged, direct-injection, 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 200 horsepower and 207 lb.-ft. of torque. Output is channeled to the front wheels via a standard 6-speed manual gearbox or the optional 6-speed automatic.

Fuel EconomyAccording to estimates published by the EPA, GTI models fitted with that automatic transmission promise better fuel economy, averaging 24 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. By comparison, stick-shift GTIs are expected to return just 21 mpg around town, though they prove to be nearly as efficient on the highway with a rating of 31 mpg.

Safety Ratings and TechnologyIn tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the 2014 Volkswagen GTI received a \"Good\" rating--the Institute's highest--for moderate overlap front-impact protection. As this overview is written, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has not rated the crashworthiness of the 2014 GTI.

In terms of related equipment, this 4-door features 6 air bags, front active head restraints, and 4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes (vented front/solid rear) with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist.

Volkswagen revealed that it will offer the sporty R-Line trim on its new 2018 Volkswagen Atlas midsize SUV that will debut at the 2017 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) next week in Detroit.